Did you know the first simple horseshoes where made from woven grass and reeds, and tied on the hoof. Its believed the Egyptians used the skins of animals to protect the horses hoof much the same as moccasins are used. Genghis Khan used a unique rawhide cup which fit over the hoof and when dry was extremely tough and wear resistant. the Romans and Greeks made use of sandals, boots, and socks of leather woven with course fibre to protect the hoof.
Shoeing with iron shoes and nails was invented, in all probability, by different nations at about the same time. The first blacksmith we have any evidence of was named Tubal-cain as recorded in Genesis, Chapter 4, verse 22. however no mention of the practice of horseshoeing was made at this early date.
All of this is a far cry from the types of metals and technological advances the farriers of today work with. I can just imagine the complaints of lost shoes at the time of the first ones used.
" Excuse me Mr. Blacksmith but my horse ate his shoe, when can you come and weave another."
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